Your melanin-rich skin is like a map. It tells the story of where you come from and what your ancestors endured. It’s a physical representation of your cultural heritage and identity. And it’s something to be proud of.
Your skin color is determined by the amount of melanin in your skin. Melanin is a pigment that gives your skin its color. The more melanin you have, the darker your skin will be.
Those of you with darker complexions have a higher concentration of melanin in your skin than those with lighter complexions. Your melanin is produced by cells in your skin called melanocytes.
The distribution of melanin in your skin also determines the undertone of your skin. Skin undertones can be divided into two categories: warm and cool. If you’ve ever seen, heard of, or experienced color analysis, you’ve heard the word undertone.
Warm skin tones have more yellow or gold undertones. Cool skin tones have more pink or blue undertones.
Your skin tone can also be affected by the amount of melanin in your skin. Those of you with darker skin typically have warm skin undertones, while those with lighter skin typically have cool skin undertones.
The color of your skin is just one aspect of your physical appearance. Your skin also has a texture, which can be divided into two categories: smooth and rough.
Smooth skin is typically soft to the touch and free of blemishes. Rough skin is typically dry and bumpy.
The texture of your skin is determined by the amount of collagen and elastin in your skin. Collagen is a protein that gives skin its strength and elasticity.
Elastin is a protein that allows your skin to stretch and return to its original shape. Got smooth skin? It’s safe to say you have more collagen and elastin in your skin than those with rough skin.
The health of your skin is determined by the balance of oils, water, and sweat on your skin. This balance is called the skin’s hydration.
If your skin is too dry, it can lead to irritation, flaking, and cracking. If your skin is too oily, it can lead to acne.
Now that you know a little more about your melanin-rich skin, it’s time to talk about how to take care of it.
You should be cleansing your skin twice a day: once in the morning and once at night. Be sure to use a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
You should moisturize your skin at least once a day, but twice a day is even better. Be sure to use a moisturizer that’s appropriate for your skin type.
If you have oily skin, look for a light, oil-free moisturizer. If you have dry skin, look for a rich, creamy moisturizer.
Be sure to use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, chest, and hands.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Your skin is your largest organ, and it’s important to take care of it. By following a simple skin care routine, you can keep your skin healthy and looking its best.
Don’t forget to cleanse, moisturize, and protect your skin from the sun. And be sure to see an esthetician or dermatologist if you have any concerns about your skin.
Your skin is a reflection of your health, so take good care of it!
When it comes to your skin, you are more than just a pretty face. You are the story of where you’ve come from and what your ancestors endured. Your skin is a physical representation of your cultural heritage and identity. And it’s something to be proud of.
That’s it for this week. Like what you’ve read? Share it with your friends on social.
As always …
Dedicated to Your Beauty,
Juliette Samuel,
Esthetician/Author/Publisher,